Bringing out the Beauty of the Gems You Found on Your Beach Trip
Remember while shelling on the beach, check carefully for sea critters, if someone is living in the shell gently place it back in the water. It shoud stay at the beach.
Seashells are beautiful treasures collected from beach excursions, serving as reminders of sun-soaked adventures and the wonders of marine life. Whether you want to display them in your home, use them in crafts, or simply preserve them, it's essential to clean them properly. Here's a easy guide to help you clean your seashells while keeping their beauty intact.
Why Clean Seashells?
When brought home, seashells often have remnants of sand, salt, and even marine organisms. Cleaning them not only enhances their appearance but also prevents any potential odor from lingering debris. A clean shell allows you to showcase its natural beauty and intricate patterns.
What You’ll Need:
• 2 large bowl or bucket of water and a small glass bowl
• Warm water
• Mild soap (dish soap works well)
• Soft-bristle toothbrush
• Toothpicks and a soft cloth
• Area to lay shells out to dry
• White vinegar (for stubborn residue)
• Tongs for dipping shells
• Acid Magic (to remove calcium deposits and restore color) https://www.amazon.com/CERTOL-INTERNATIONAL-USA-128-1-Replacement/dp/B000KKQ8LA/ref=sr_1_1
Seashell Cleaning Process
1. Rinse with Water:
Start by rinsing each seashell under warm running water. This will help remove loose sand and dirt.
2. Soak in Soapy Water:
Fill a bowl or bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap. Soak your seashells for hour or two to loosen any remaining debris.
3. Gently Scrub:
Using a soft-bristle toothbrush, gently scrub each shell, paying attention to crevices where sand and grime tend to hide.
4. Address Stubborn Residue:
For shells with stubborn residue or barnacles, dip a toothpick in warm soapy water and gently work it into crevices. For particularly tough spots, try a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to help dissolve grime.
5. Use Acid Magic:
Acid Magic can be a fantastic solution. Dilute it according to the product instructions and carefully dip your seashell using tongs into the small bowl of Acid Magic. Count to 3 and remove seashell from the acid Magic and dip immediately into the bucket or bowl of fresh water. This neutralizes the acid. Always follow safety guidelines while using acids.
6. Dry Thoroughly:
Place the cleaned seashells on a baking tray or towel to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
7. Polish:
You can buff your shells with a soft cloth or a small amount of mineral oil to restore their shine and bring out their natural beauty.
Check out the videos from SWF Beach Life. They are sooooo informative! She identifies the shells as she finds them and has a video on cleaning them as well. We love them and highly reccommend! https://www.youtube.com/c/SWFBeachLife
Cleaning seashells can be a relaxing and rewarding activity, bringing out the beauty in each unique piece. Enjoy the process and don’t rush it! Whether you're a seashell collector or using your finds for art projects, a little care goes a long way in preserving these coastal treasures. Happy shell cleaning!
